The Jubilee 2025 is one of the most anticipated religious celebrations in the entire Christian world. This year, the opening of the Holy Door at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome marks the beginning of a period of spiritual renewal and pilgrimage that calls millions of faithful to take part.

The Jubilee tradition dates back over seven centuries, when Pope Boniface VIII established the first Holy Year in 1300. During these events, the church grants plenary indulgences to those who, with faith and devotion, visit the major basilicas of Rome, especially Santa Maria Maggiore, St. Peter’s, St. Paul Outside the Walls, and St. John Lateran.

Beyond its religious dimension, this celebration offers an opportunity to discover the rich historical and cultural heritage of the sacred sites. Santa Maria Maggiore is an architectural gem with elements ranging from Early Christian art to the Renaissance.

Participating in the Jubilee 2025 is not only an experience of faith, but also a way to explore Europe’s spiritual and artistic roots. At Mundiplus, your specialist agency for the Camino de Santiago, we want to explain the reasons why you should consider experiencing this event.

 

Why attend the Jubilee 2025?

The Jubilee 2025 is an extraordinary event that brings together spirituality, culture, and tradition. Here are some reasons why it’s worth attending:

  • Receiving plenary indulgence: the main reason to attend is the opportunity to receive plenary indulgence. This means complete forgiveness of sins, a spiritual gift granted only during these Holy Years. To receive it, one must pass through the Holy Door, confess, receive the Eucharist, and pray for the intentions of the Pope.

 

  • Spiritual renewal: Jubilee years are an ideal time to strengthen your faith and seek new purpose in life. Taking part in the religious ceremonies, processions, and special events in Rome is a deeply transformative experience.

 

  • Discovering a unique heritage: Santa Maria Maggiore is the only basilica that has maintained its original structure since the 5th century. Its mosaics, sculptures, and chapels, such as the Crib Crypt, make this church a place of great artistic and religious significance.

 

  • Universal fraternity atmosphere: during this religious event, Rome becomes a meeting point for pilgrims from all over the world. The city fills with faithful people, united by a spirit of togetherness and hope, creating a unique and unforgettable atmosphere.

 

  • Tourist opportunities in Rome: in addition to taking part in the religious events, you’ll be able to enjoy the historical and cultural richness of the Eternal City. Landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Vatican, the Trevi Fountain, and Piazza Navona will add unforgettable experiences to your journey.

 

How does it work?

The Holy Door symbolises the passage from sin to grace and is only opened during Holy Years or Jubilees. Crossing it represents an opportunity for spiritual renewal and the granting of plenary indulgences for the faithful.

During the Jubilee, the faithful have the opportunity to obtain the plenary indulgence. To do so, they must pass through the Holy Door, confess, receive the Eucharist, and pray for the intentions of the Pope. This act symbolises a profound spiritual renewal and the forgiveness of sins.

 

The Camino de Santiago and the Jubilee 2025 at Santa Maria Maggiore

The Camino de Santiago and the Jubilee 2025 are connected through a deep Christian tradition that combines faith, pilgrimage, and spiritual quest. Just as the Jubilee invites the faithful to pass through the Holy Door as a symbol of renewal, the Camino de Santiago ignites the desire to rediscover one’s faith and find personal answers.

During this Jubilee, many pilgrims feel inspired to combine both experiences. To do so, they can opt for historical and shorter routes such as:

  • The Camino Sanabrés from Ourense, a route that takes you through inland Galicia, filled with natural landscapes and local traditions. This variant offers a perfect spiritual connection, as it aligns with the purification and grace values celebrated during the Holy Year.

 

  • Another iconic route is the Camino Primitivo from Lugo, known for being part of the oldest itinerary to the Apostle’s tomb. This journey, marked by physically demanding stages and mountain landscapes, reinforces the idea of sacrifice and personal growth, which also defines the Jubilee.

 

Of course, the distance covered doesn’t have to be an obstacle. Likewise, doing the Camino Norte from Irún offers breathtaking landscapes and a rich cultural tradition along its route through cities like San Sebastián, Bilbao, and Santander. Additionally, it provides moments of introspection that promise a deeply transformative experience.

 

Curiosities of the Jubilee 2025

Here are some important details about this religious celebration:

  • On 1st January 2025, the Holy Door at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore was opened, marking its participation in the Jubilee 2025. This ritual was presided over by Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas, co-archpriest of the basilica.

 

  • During the opening ceremony, the historic bell known as “La Sperduta” rang out. This bell returned to the basilica in March 2024, after 140 years of absence. Its name, which means “The Lost One”, comes from an ancient tradition: it is said that its sound helped lost pilgrims find their way back to the city.

 

  • In addition to the religious ceremonies, the Jubilee includes a series of cultural events, such as concerts, art exhibitions, and lectures, which enrich the experience of pilgrims and visitors.
     

The Jubilee 2025 at Santa Maria Maggiore is a unique opportunity to revitalise your spirituality, connect with centuries of Christian history, and immerse yourself in an atmosphere of faith and unity. Whether you have already walked the Camino de Santiago or this is your first pilgrimage experience, this Holy Year offers unforgettable moments of inner renewal.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of this momentous event. Rome, with its sacred and cultural heritage, is waiting for you to experience the Jubilee 2025 as an experience that will change your perspective on life. Be encouraged to cross the Holy Door and begin your own path of transformation.